28715, Candler, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28715, Candler, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.15 percent of residents in 28715 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Mission Hospital And Asheville Surgery Ce with a distance of 8.32 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Candler, NC (ZIP Code 28715)**

The crisp mountain air of Candler, North Carolina, offers a serene backdrop for life, but when facing a health crisis like lung cancer, the accessibility of quality healthcare becomes paramount. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 28715, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the ease of reaching essential medical services. The goal is to empower residents and those considering moving to Candler with a clear understanding of their healthcare access options.

Candler itself is a relatively rural community, nestled in the western part of Buncombe County. This geographical context significantly influences the availability of transportation and, consequently, healthcare access. The presence of lung cancer necessitates timely and consistent access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these critical factors, evaluating the efficiency and reliability of various transportation modes.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Candler is Interstate 26 (I-26), a major thoroughfare connecting the area to Asheville and beyond. Driving to Mission Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the region, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route usually involves taking I-26 East towards Asheville, then exiting onto US-19/23 North, which leads directly to the hospital campus.

Another important road is US-19/23, also known as the Smoky Mountain Expressway. This highway provides an alternative route to Asheville, and can also be used to access other medical facilities, such as the Charles George VA Medical Center, which is located on the west side of Asheville. Drive times to the VA Medical Center are usually around 25-35 minutes.

Smaller roads, like NC-191 (Brevard Road) and Pisgah Highway, offer access to local businesses and services, but are not ideal for commuting to major hospitals due to their slower speeds and potential for congestion. These roads are useful for accessing local doctor's offices and pharmacies within the Candler area. The "Lung Cancer Score" weighs the reliance on these roads, considering their impact on the overall commute time to essential healthcare.

Traffic conditions can significantly impact drive times, particularly during peak hours. Morning and evening commutes, as well as times when there are accidents, can lead to delays. These delays can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may need to schedule multiple appointments per week. The score takes this variability into account, acknowledging the potential for unpredictable travel times.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options in Candler are limited, and this significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The Asheville Transit System (ATS) provides some bus routes that serve areas near Candler, but direct routes to major hospitals are infrequent. The primary bus route that serves Candler is Route S3, which travels along US-19/23.

Accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments is a crucial factor. ATS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent schedules and potential for lengthy travel times make public transit less than ideal for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects this limitation, highlighting the challenges faced by those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The lack of readily available public transportation underscores the importance of other transportation options. The score acknowledges that the public transit system, while available, is not a primary solution for patients needing regular and timely medical care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Candler area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, a common practice during periods of high demand, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized patient transport providers, are also available. These services are often geared towards patients with specific medical needs, such as those requiring assistance with mobility or those who need to be transported on a stretcher. The cost of these services can vary, and they may require prior arrangements. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability and affordability of these services, recognizing their importance for patients who cannot drive or use other forms of transportation.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide Medical Transportation:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Medical Transport:** Provides stretcher and ambulatory transportation services.
* **MedTrans Corporation:** Specializes in long-distance medical transportation.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" – A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Candler (ZIP Code 28715) reflects the transportation challenges faced by individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. While the area offers scenic beauty and a desirable lifestyle, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles create potential barriers to healthcare access. The score considers the drive times to major hospitals, the limitations of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options.

The score also acknowledges the importance of local resources, such as doctor's offices and pharmacies, in providing convenient access to basic medical care. The presence of these resources can reduce the frequency of trips to major hospitals.

**Moving to Candler: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Candler, this report serves as a crucial guide. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of having reliable transportation, whether it be a personal vehicle, access to ride-sharing services, or the ability to utilize medical transport. Individuals with lung cancer or other chronic conditions should carefully assess their transportation needs and ensure they have a plan in place to access healthcare services.

The score also emphasizes the importance of considering the potential for traffic delays and the limitations of public transit. Planning ahead, scheduling appointments strategically, and exploring all available transportation options are essential for ensuring timely and consistent access to medical care.

In conclusion, while Candler offers a desirable lifestyle, the "Lung Cancer Score" suggests that healthcare access is a significant consideration for residents and prospective residents. Understanding the transportation landscape, including the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, is crucial for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring the best possible outcomes for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.